Short-Term Rental Regulations
in Birch Bay, WA

Vacation rentals are allowed as accessory uses in most residential, rural, and agricultural zones, but require a conditional use permit in the Lake Whatcom Watershed. Operations are limited to one unit per lot with occupancy capped at two guests per bedroom plus two additional guests, and off-street parking is required.

Yes, a permit is required to operate a short-term rental in Birch Bay. 1. Register the unit with the Whatcom County Vacation Rental Registry maintained by Planning and Development Services. 2. Submit required documentation including a 24-hour contact, safety feature checklist, and a copy of a current Washington State business license (UBI). 3. Reapply for registration annually and pay the fee specified in the Unified Fee Schedule.

1. Register the unit with the Whatcom County Vacation Rental Registry maintained by Planning and Development Services. 2. Submit required documentation including a 24-hour contact, safety feature checklist, and a copy of a current Washington State business license (UBI). 3. Reapply for registration annually and pay the fee specified in the Unified Fee Schedule.